Monte Paterno Route

The Monte Paterno Via Ferrata leads up to the almost 3,000-metre-high Monte Paterno. Its starting point is the Auronzo Hut, located just beyond the provincial border. The hut is a popular starting point as it marks the end of the toll road to the Three Peaks of Lavaredo. The shuttle bus from Dobbiaco also stops here, making it possible to arrive without a car. The via ferrata adventure begins against the impressive backdrop of the mighty Three Peaks.

The approach leads from the Auronzo Hut to the Tre Cime-Locatelli Hut. From there, you follow the signs towards the "Patern Gallerie and wartime paths". The via ferrata runs partly through wartime tunnels, as the front line of the war in the Dolomites once passed through here. Initially, the path ascends through the pitch-black Galleria Paterna. For this reason, full equipment, including a head torch, is essential. This is followed by a moderately difficult via ferrata (B/C), which leads over scree and rock ledges through a steep flank to the summit of Monte Paterno.

The route is named after the famous mountaineer Sepp Innerkofler, to whom a memorial plaque is dedicated on the mountain. From the summit of the Monte Paterno, you have an exceptional view of the north faces of the Three Peaks of Lavaredo. This view is also one of the reasons why the via ferrata is so popular and frequently climbed. From the Forcella del Camoscio, you can extend the trip into a fine circular tour via the Sentiero delle Forcelle.

This path runs as an impressive rock ledge right through the rugged flank of the mountain. Alternatively, the descent via the Forcella Passaporto is also worthwhile. You should allow a little over four hours, covering both the walking and the actual climbing time.